Campaigners fighting plans for a wind turbine in rural Bishopsteignton have won their case, after a public inquiry.

Nigel Everett of Coombe Cottage, Colway Close, wanted to erect the 58ft (18m) generator in his garden in order to produce up to 5kw of renewable energy.

Earlier in the year the scheme had won the support of planning officers, but when it was put before members of Teignbridge Council's development control committee, they sided with the parish council which had opposed the plan.

Not only was the parish worried about the noise which might be made by the 16ft (5m) blades, but it was also concerned about the visual impact on what is an Area of Great Landscape Value and a Coastal Protection Area.

Faced with the committee's refusal, Mr Everett appealed but, on December 22, having carried out a site visit on December 9, planning inspector John Woolcock agreed with the opponents.

He said the benefits of renewable energy should be given 'significant weight', but the turbine's potential impact would have been too great a price to pay.

It would also have to be switched off for 15 minutes every sunset and sunrise to allow bats in the area a safe passage, although he dismissed fears that the blades could pose a risk to residents or nearby power lines.

In his report Mr Woolcock wrote: 'My reservations about noise and disturbance in this case are alone sufficient to outweigh the benefits of the proposed development.

'The adverse effect on the character and appearance of the area tips the balance even further against the proposal.

'The harm I have identified, in my judgement, represents a compelling objection to allowing the appeal. For the reasons given above and having regard to all other matters raised, I conclude that the appeal should be dismissed.'

The decision has been welcomed by district councillor Alun Williams, who told the Advertiser: 'We're very pleased as, when councillors make a decision which goes against officers' advice, it is unusual to win if the applicant appeals.

'But on this occasion we were very worried that the turbine would have impacted very badly on the village both in terms of noise and appearance.'